Basil Pesto Dressing

This basil pesto dressing is a flavorful and versatile condiment that can be used to dress salads, pasta, or grilled meats. It's made with fresh basil, olive oil, Parmesan cheese, garlic, pine nuts, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper. The dressing is easy to make and can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Pesto is a traditional Italian sauce that originated in the region of Liguria. It is typically made with basil, garlic, olive oil, pine nuts, and Parmesan cheese. The first recorded recipe for pesto dates back to the 19th century, but it is likely that the sauce has been around for much longer. Pesto was originally used as a condiment for pasta, but it has since become popular as a topping for pizzas, grilled meats, and vegetables. There are many different variations of pesto, but the classic recipe remains the most popular.

Prep time: 5 | Cook time: 0 | Serves: 4

Ingredients

• 2 cups basil leaves, lightly packed
• 1/2 cup olive oil
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon pine nuts
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

1. Wash and dry basil leaves thoroughly.
2. Combine all ingredients in a food processor and blend until smooth and well combined.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
4. Transfer the dressing to a jar or container and store in the refrigerator for up to one week.

Why It Works

• The fresh basil gives the dressing a bright and herbaceous flavor.
• The olive oil provides a rich and creamy texture.
• The Parmesan cheese adds a salty and nutty flavor.
• The garlic adds a pungent and aromatic flavor.
• The pine nuts add a crunchy texture and a nutty flavor.
• The lemon juice adds a bright and acidic flavor.
• The salt and black pepper add depth and complexity to the flavor.